Systems and methods for harvesting, storing, and implanting hair grafts

ABSTRACT

A system and method for harvesting, storing, and implanting biological units, in particular hair follicular units (FUs). The system is particularly useful to facilitate hair transplant procedures. FUs are harvested from a body surface, either attached to a patient or in a strip of removed tissue, and shuttled into a cartridge having a plurality of receptacles. The receptacles are open in a distal direction toward a removal tool, but a cover over the proximal ends of the receptacles prevents the FUs from continuing out of the cartridge. The cover is made of a permissible medium, which may be fluid permeable and/or puncturable. One way to shuttle the FUs is to provide a pressure differential, such as by applying suction to the proximal end of a receptacle. The shuttle subsystem may be incorporated within an overall automated or robotic system, or the shuttle subsystem may form part of a semi-automated or even manual apparatus.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/997,188, filed on Sep. 29, 2007, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to devices, systems and methodsfor storing objects used in cosmetic and dermatological procedures, andit is especially useful for storing hair grafts or hair follicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various cosmetic and dermatological procedures exist where there is aneed to collect and store biological units, for example, for futureexamination, or processing, or reuse. Hair transplantation proceduresare among those well-known procedures, and typically involve harvestingdonor hair grafts from the donor areas of the patient's body, mostcommonly scalp, and implanting them in a bald area (recipient area). Thefollicular units may be classified, or “typed,” based on the number ofhairs in the unit and identified in shorthand as an “F1” for a singlehair follicular unit, an “F2” for a two hair follicular unit and so onfor follicular units with 3-5 hairs.

Various procedures for hair transplantation have been previouslydisclosed, including both manual and mechanized to certain degrees ofautomation. In one well-known manual process, a linear portion of thescalp is removed from a donor area by dissection with a scalpel downinto the fatty subcutaneous tissue. The strip is dissected (under amicroscope) into the component follicular units, which are thenimplanted into a recipient area in respective puncture holes made by aneedle. Forceps are typically used to grasp and place the follicularunit grafts into the needle puncture locations, although otherinstruments and methods are known for doing so.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,585,746 discloses an automated hair transplantationsystem utilizing a robot and various tools maneuverable by the robot toharvest and implant hair grafts.

During manual, semi-automatic, or robotically-assisted procedures forhair transplantation, it is usually desirable to collect and retainharvested follicular units or grafts in some storage device prior totheir implantation. Similarly, in other cosmetic and dermatologicalprocedures that require removal of the biological objects or tissue, itmay be desirable to collect and store such objects before they areprocessed, reused or re-implanted. Often these storage devices consistof a container for bulk hair grafts, from which a technician plucksindividual grafts for implant. While attempts were made to design somestorage devices or cartridges for containing hair follicles for use inmanual hair transplantation procedures, there is a clear need for animproved storage device with an improved design and which could be usedin manual, partially or fully automated, or robotically-assisted systemsand procedures.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a general aspect of one of the inventions disclosedherein, a storage device or a cartridge for holding biological units,for example, follicular units, is provided. The storage device includesa body having a first face and a second face and defining a plurality ofreceptacles therein for holding biological units. The receptacles eachpass through the body from the first face to the second face and includea first opening at the first face of the body and at least one secondopening at the second face of the body. A permissive medium covers thesecond openings of the plurality of receptacles. The permissive mediumfacilitates movement of a biological unit to or from the receptacles,and may be, for example, meshes, screens, paper, elastomeric materialssuch as silicone, various resealable materials, etc. The permissivemedium prevents biological units from passing into the first opening andexiting the storage device from the second opening, while at the sametime allowing passage of air and/or liquids.

In one embodiment the storage device body is substantially cylindricalor disk-shaped and has a thickness dimension along the direction of thecylindrical axis, wherein the receptacles are arrayed in a pattern andthrough the thickness dimension of the body. The pattern may include atleast one circular array of receptacles along a circumference of thestorage device, however the pattern may have other configurations,including random, if desired. Alternatively, the body is substantiallyrectilinear having a thickness dimension and the receptacles are arrayedin a pattern through the thickness dimension of the body. For instance,the receptacles may be arrayed in a close-packed matrix. A pressurerelief structure on the receptacles may limit the maximum suctioncreated therewithin.

The permissive medium may comprise a cover attached to the body thatextends at least partly over the second face and over the secondopenings. In one embodiment, each portion of the permissive medium thatcovers the second openings of the receptacles is rendered unusable oncepunctured such that the storage device is a single-use device, and ispreferably disposable. In another embodiment each portion of thepermissive medium that covers the second openings of the receptacles isresealable once punctured such that the storage device may be reusedmore than once.

In one useful embodiment, the biological unit is a hair graft, and thereceptacles are sized to closely receive the hair graft. Furthermore,the storage device may be configured to be removably received in arobotic hair transplantation system. Indeed, the storage device may beconfigured to be removably received in one or more of a hand-held,partially automated, and fully automated device or system. At least onereceptacle of the plurality of receptacles may contain a biological unitpreservation solution, and the storage device may be configured to allowfor cooling of the biological unit once it is held in a receptacle ofthe plurality of receptacles.

Another aspect of the invention is a device for transplanting follicularunits (FUs) into tissue comprising a robotic system having a robotic armand a control mechanism, the device also employs a storage cartridge. Animplanting tool having a lumen therethrough connects to and ismanipulated by the robotic arm. The device includes the cartridge havinga plurality of receptacles each adapted to retain an FU. The controlmechanism automatically aligns the selected cartridge receptacle withthe lumen of the implanting tool and urges the FU from the selectedreceptacle through the lumen of the implanting tool into the tissue. Anobturator positioned to pass through the selected cartridge receptaclemay be directed by the control mechanism to urge the FU from theselected receptacle. Alternatively, the control mechanism may initiate apressure differential through the selected cartridge receptacle to urgethe FU from the selected receptacle. In addition, a follicular unitremoval tool having a lumen therethrough, may be connected to andmanipulated by the robotic arm to position the removal tool over an FUlocated on a body surface, wherein the control mechanism is adapted toalign the lumen of the removal tool with a selected cartridge receptacleand urge the FU through the removal tool into the selected cartridgereceptacle.

A still further aspect of the present invention is automated process forshuttling a biological unit such as a follicular unit into and from astorage device having a plurality of receptacles. The process includesat least: acquiring a biological unit into a first tool usingsubstantially automated process; urging the biological unit from thefirst tool into a selected receptacle of the storage device using asubstantially automated process; capturing the biological unit in theselected receptacle; and displacing the biological unit from theselected storage device receptacle into the said first tool or adifferent tool using a substantially automated process.

In the process, the first tool preferably defines a lumen therethroughand the step of urging the biological unit through the first toolcomprises applying a pressure differential to the first tool lumen.Structure may be provided along a path in which the biological unittravels from the first tool to the storage device receptacle to reducethe pressure differential along a portion thereof and thereby reduce thespeed of the biological unit along the path. For instance, a parallelflow path outside of the path may be provided which terminates justbefore the path reaches the storage device. In one embodiment theprocess includes applying a source of suction to a proximal side of theselected receptacle, and providing a pressure relief channel on theproximal side of each receptacle for limiting the maximum suctioncreated within the receptacle to less than a suction magnitude of thesource of suction.

Alternatively, the first tool may define a lumen therethrough and thestep of urging the biological unit through the first tool comprisespushing the biological unit through the lumen of the first tool usingmechanical means. The process may further include cooling the biologicalunit while it is stored in the receptacle of the storage device, andpreserving the biological unit while it is stored in the receptacle ofthe storage device with a preservation solution. Preferably, at leastsome steps of the method are computer-controlled, and at least somesteps of the method may be performed by a robot.

In the process, the step of displacing the biological unit from thestorage device receptacle may comprise pushing the biological unit fromthe receptacle using an obturator that passes into the receptacle. Inone embodiment, the storage device has a body with a thickness and thereceptacles passing through the body between a first opening and asecond opening on corresponding first and second ends of thereceptacles. Further, a permissive medium covers the second ends of thereceptacles, wherein displacing the biological unit from the storagedevice receptacle comprises pushing the biological unit from thereceptacle using an obturator that enters the receptacle through thepermissive medium. Alternatively, urging the biological unit through theremoval tool comprises applying a pressure differential to the removaltool lumen by reducing the pressure at the second end of the receptaclerelative to the first end. For instance, the pressure at the second endof the receptacle is reduced relative to the first end by applying a lowpressure source to the second end through the permissive medium, such asby introducing a probe into the receptacle second end through thepermissive medium, the probe providing a source of low pressure.

In the process, the step of acquiring may include removing thebiological unit from one location on a body surface into the first tool,wherein the first tool is a removal tool, and further implanting thebiological unit from the same removal tool or a different tool intoanother location on the body surface. In one embodiment, the removaltool or said different tool is an implanting tool, the implanting tooldefining a lumen therethrough and the step of displacing comprisesmechanical pushing of the biological unit into the implanting toollumen. The process may further including the steps of disengaging theremoval tool from the storage device receptacle, and engaging animplanting tool with the storage device receptacle. The process isespecially useful when the biological unit is a hair follicular unit.

According to another aspect of the present invention systems and methodsfor managing biological units (for example, inspecting, classifying, orstoring) is provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the system includes acartridge having a plurality of receptacles each sized to receive abiological unit. An inspection device is operably connected to thecartridge, and the system also includes a mechanism for transferring abiological unit past the inspection device and into one of the pluralityof cartridge receptacles. Finally, a processor is provided for receivingsignals from the inspection device, and performing one or more ofregistering passage of the biological unit into one of the plurality ofcartridge receptacles, counting biological units, and classifyingbiological units. The processor is further adapted to record the resultsof one or more of the operations of registering, counting andclassifying for later recollection and selective retrieval from thecorresponding cartridge receptacle.

The mechanism that transfers the biological units may comprise an openchannel having a pressure differential therein through which thebiological units pass. In one embodiment, the inspection devicecomprises a light source and light detector for registering passage ofthe biological unit. In a second embodiment, the inspection devicecomprises a camera for recording an image of the biological unit as itpasses the inspection device. The system may further utilize a strobelight arranged to periodically illuminate an imaging point under focusof the camera. A tracking system located upstream of the imaging pointadjacent a channel through which the biological units pass may registerpassage of a biological unit and signal the strobe light to fire. Forinstance, the tracking system may include light source/detector pairs.

A method of the present invention for managing biological unitscomprises transferring a biological unit past an inspection device andinto one of a plurality of receptacles of a cartridge, each receptaclebeing sized to receive the biological unit, processing signals receivedfrom the inspection device and performing one or more of registeringpassage of the biological units, counting the biological units and/orclassifying the biological units. The method further includes recordingthe results of one or more of the operations of registering, countingand classifying for later recollection and selective retrieval from thecorresponding cartridge receptacle. The step of transferring may involveurging the biological unit through an open channel using a pressuredifferential. A camera may be used to image each biological unit, and atracking system for anticipating the position of each biological unitand firing a strobe light may be incorporated.

A system for managing biological units in accordance with another aspectof the present invention includes an inspection device for inspecting abiological unit, a mechanism for transferring a biological unit throughthe inspection device, and a processor for receiving signals from theinspection device. The processor may also register passage of thebiological unit through the inspection device, counts biological units,and/or classifies biological units. The processor is further adapted torecord the results of one or more of the operations of registering,counting and classifying. Desirably, the biological unit is a hairfollicular unit. The system further may comprise a cartridge having aplurality of receptacles each sized to receive a biological unit,wherein the mechanism for transferring transfers the biological unitpast the inspection device and into one of the plurality of cartridgereceptacles. The system is adapted for later recollection and selectiveretrieval of the registered, counted or classified biological unit fromthe corresponding cartridge receptacle. The mechanism for transferringmay be an open channel having a pressure differential therein throughwhich the biological unit passes.

The aforementioned inspection device may comprise a light source andlight detector for registering passage of the biological unit.Alternatively, the inspection device comprises a camera for recording animage of the biological unit as it passes the inspection device. Astrobe light may be arranged to periodically illuminate an imaging pointunder focus of the camera. The biological unit may pass through achannel and a tracking system may be provided adjacent the channelupstream of the imaging point, the tracking system is adapted toregister passage of a biological unit and signal the strobe light tofire. The tracking system may comprise spaced apart lightsource/detector pairs connected to relay biological unit positioninformation and the processor may be programmed to calculate when tosignal the strobe light to fire.

Additional method for managing biological units of the present inventionincludes steps of: transferring a biological unit through an inspectiondevice; processing signals received from the inspection device, andperforming one or more of the operations of registering passage of thebiological unit through the inspection device, counting biologicalunits, and classifying biological units; and recording the results ofone or more of the operations of registering, counting and classifying.

In the aforementioned method, the biological unit is desirably afollicular unit, and the method further includes using the inspectedfollicular unit in a hair transplantation procedure. The method maycomprise transferring the biological unit past the inspection device andinto one of a plurality of cartridge receptacles, each receptacle sizedto receive the biological unit. The method may also include selectivelyretrieving the biological unit from the corresponding cartridgereceptacle based on the recorded results.

Another system of the present invention for managing follicular unitscomprises a removal tool for removing follicular units from a bodysurface and transferring each along a pathway from one location toanother. The system further includes an inspection device located alongthe pathway automatically inspects each follicular unit that passesthereby and a processor for receiving signals from the inspection deviceand registering passage of the follicular unit. The processor may countthe number of follicular units that pass by the inspection device,classify each follicular unit that passes by the inspection device,and/or show on a display the classification of each follicular unit asit passes by the inspection device. The removal tool may be connected toa robotic arm and adapted to be manipulated by the robotic arm.

A still further method for managing biological units of the presentinvention comprises removing a follicular units from a body surface andtransferring it along a pathway in a removal tool from one location toanother, automatically inspecting the follicular unit that passes alongthe pathway, and/or processing signals received from the inspection andregistering passage of the follicular unit. The method may includeautomatically counting the number of follicular units inspected,automatically classifying each follicular unit inspected, and/orautomatically displaying the classification of each follicular unitclassified. The method may further include aligning the pathway with aselected receptacle of a storage cartridge and urging the follicularunit into the selected cartridge receptacle.

A further aspect of the invention provides an automated process forremoving from a body surface and storing biological units. The processcomprises acquiring a biological unit from the body surface into aremoval tool; urging the biological unit through the removal tool into areceptacle of a cartridge; classifying the acquired biological unit; andrecording the classification of the biological unit and the location ofthe corresponding cartridge receptacle for later recollection andselective retrieval. Desirably, the automated process isrobotically-assisted.

Other and further objects and advantages of the invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description when read in view ofthe accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features and advantages of the present invention will become appreciatedas the same become better understood with reference to thespecification, claims, and appended drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective assembled view of an exemplary cartridge shuttlesubsystem of the present invention for harvesting and implantingbiological units, such as follicular units;

FIG. 2 is a perspective exploded view of the cartridge shuttle subsystemof FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the cartridge shuttle subsystem ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a sectional view through the cartridge shuttle subsystem takenalong line 4-4 of FIG. 3 and showing a number of flow portstherethrough;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a portion of one embodiment of acartridge shuttle subsystem with an exemplary follicular unit inspectiondevice;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are side elevational and sectional view through anexemplary cartridge shuttle subsystem with the inspection device of FIG.5;

FIGS. 7A-7E are various perspective, elevational, and sectional views ofan exemplary rectilinear cartridge for use with the cartridge shuttlesubsystem of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a cutaway perspective view of the exemplary cartridge shuttlesubsystem shown in a follicular unit harvesting mode;

FIG. 9 is a cutaway perspective view of the exemplary cartridge shuttlesubsystem shown in a follicular unit implant mode;

FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary roboticbiological unit harvesting and implanting system of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 11-13 are perspective, side and bottom plan views, respectively ofa head assembly of the system of FIG. 10;

FIGS. 14A-14D are elevational, and sectional views of an exemplarydisk-shaped cartridge for storing hair grafts according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the exemplary disk-shaped cartridgeprior to loading into a harvesting/implanting system of the presentinvention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the prepared cartridge of FIGURE 15 inproximity to certain harvesting/implanting system components with whichit directly interacts;

FIG. 17 is a perspective sectional view of the components of FIG. 16showing exemplary pressure differential reduction structure in a passagefrom a harvesting tool to the cartridge to slow down the velocity of abiological unit traveling therethrough;

FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view of a proximal side of a cartridgeof the present invention showing exemplary pressure relief structure atone of the receptacle openings;

FIG. 19 is a perspective sectional view of one edge of an alternativecartridge of the present invention showing a suction probe extendingthrough a permissive medium into a receptacle;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of thefollicular unit shuttle components according to the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of the shuttle components;

FIGS. 22A-22D are sectional views through the shuttle components takenalong line 22-22 of FIG. 20, and showing a sequence of operation ofthose components of the one exemplary embodiment of the system forharvesting a follicular unit; and

FIGS. 23A-23B are sectional views through the shuttle components takenalong line 22-22 of FIG. 20, and showing a sequence of operation ofthose components of one exemplary embodiment of the system forimplanting a follicular unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following Detailed Description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, in which are shown by way of illustrationspecific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In thisregard, directional terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,”“distal,” “proximal,” etc., are used with reference to the orientationof the Figure(s) being described. Because components or embodiments ofthe present invention can be positioned in a number of differentorientations, the directional terminology is used for purposes ofillustration and is in no way limiting. It is to be understood thatother embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes maybe made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thefollowing Detailed Description, therefore, is not to be taken in alimiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by theappended claims.

The adjective “automated” with reference to a system or process as awhole means that some part or all of a particular system or step in theprocess involves an autonomous mechanism or function; i.e., thatmechanism or function does not require manual actuation. Ultimately, oneor more steps in the procedure may be automated, or autonomous, withsome parts requiring manual input. This definition encompasses anautomated system that requires only an operator to depress an ON switchor schedule the operation, and also a system in which hand held toolsare used but some mechanism of the system functions autonomously, i.e.,without human input, to perform a function. Some of the automatedprocesses described herein may also be robotically-assisted orcomputer/software/machine-instruction controlled. The devices andmethods of the present invention are useful in manual procedures andsystems, as well as in automated procedures and system, and they areespecially useful in the robotically-assisted systems and procedures. Incontrast, the adverb “automatically” when referred to use of aparticular component of a system or a particular step in a process meansthat such step is accomplished autonomously, i.e., without real-timemanual assistance.

The term “tool” as used in harvesting (or removal) tool with referenceto a hair transplantation procedure refers to any number of tools or endeffectors that are capable of removing or harvesting FUs from a bodysurface. Likewise, a “tool” as used in implanting tool with reference toa hair transplantation procedure refers to any number of tools or endeffectors that are capable of implanting/inserting FUs to a bodysurface. In this sense, a body surface can be attached to the body or bea flap of skin removed from the body. Such tools may have many differentforms and configurations. In some embodiments, the tool comprises ahollow tubular shaft. The distal end of removal tools (for example,punches, coring devices, cutting and/or trimming devices, needles), aretypically sharpened, to cut and extract the tissue (e.g., hairfollicle). Implanting tools may also be sharpened so as to performpuncture and delivery of the FU in one operation. However, the puncturemay be formed by another tool, with the implanting tool being relativelyblunt and used just for delivery of the FU. It also should be noted thatthe harvesting and implanting tools could be the same or differentinstrument, depending on the procedure and objects to be removed orharvested.

The present invention utilizes a storage device into which harvestedbiological units are placed. The storage device includes receptacles forreceiving the biological units and may be immediately reused to presentthe biological units for implantation, or may be retained for a periodfor later use. In one preferred embodiment, the storage device comprisesa body having a thickness dimension and the receptacles extend throughthe body along the thickness dimension. The storage device may bealternately referenced herein as a cartridge or storage cartridge. Itshould be understood that the exemplary storage devices (e.g., acartridge for hair follicles) of the present invention are especiallysuited for use with a robotic system or computer-controlled system.However, certain principles of the storage devices also provideimprovements that could be used with manual, other automated orpartially automated systems and devices.

“Biological units” includes discrete units used in cosmetic anddermatological procedures, for example, various tissue, including thatextracted for biopsies or grafting, skin units, etc. One example of thebiological units particularly useful with the present invention are hairgrafts, or follicles, or “follicular unit(s).”

The present invention discloses an entire system, a shuttle subsystemcomponent thereof, and the storage device useful for harvesting andimplanting biological units. As mentioned above, the term biologicalunits encompasses a number of things, though the present invention isparticularly useful in robotic hair transplantation, to provide anautomated system and a storage device for harvesting and implantingfollicular units (FUs). As such, the term follicular units (or FUs) willbe used herein simply as an example for purposes of describing someembodiments of the present invention with the understanding that itrepresents more broadly biological units. An exemplary shuttle subsystemwill be described first, and an entire system second, and it should beunderstood that the robotic principles and mechanism that are describedwith respect to the entire system could be adapted to utilize theearlier-described subsystem.

According to the one aspect of the present invention, FIGS. 1-9illustrate various components and process steps for an exemplarycartridge shuttle subsystem 20. This shuttle subsystem “shuttles” ortransfers hair grafts from the body surface and/or harvesting tool intothe cartridge and back from the cartridge into an implanting tool. Withreference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the subsystem 20 comprises a block-like basemember 22 having a distal end 24 and a proximal end 26. A longitudinaldirection will be defined extending from the distal end 24 to theproximal end 26, while the transverse direction extends perpendicularthereto in a horizontal plane. The base member 22 defines a transversechannel 28 that receives therein a rectilinear cartridge 30. Thecartridge 30 slides transversely within the channel 28 either manuallyor automatically, for example, under the control of a roboticmanipulator (not shown).

A tool 32 extends distally from the distal end 24 of the base member 22.The illustrated exemplary tool 32 for convenience and simplicityschematically represents both an FU removal/harvesting tool and animplanting tool, which can be interchangeably coupled to the base member22. Typically, the harvesting tool includes a coring distal end, andboth a harvesting tool and an implanting tool typically define therein alumen or throughbore. An elongated rod-like obturator 34 projectsproximally from the proximal end 26 of the base member 22. The use ofthe obturator 34 will be described below. The cartridge shuttlesubsystem 20 further preferably includes an inspection device 36. Theinspection device 36 may be used in variety of ways. It could simplyregister the passing of the harvested FU from the harvesting tool intothe cartridge, or from the cartridge back into the implanting tool toverify that an FU was successfully removed and transferred into thecartridge. Furthermore, the inspection device 36 could be used forpurposes of counting the number of FUs that are transferred; or in moreadvanced systems, it may also allow for assessment or classification of,for example, the size and/or character of harvested follicular units.

With reference now to FIG. 4, the base member 22 defines a longitudinalchannel extending entirely through the body substantially along themidline thereof. On the distal end 24 the channel receives the tool 32such as in an interference fit or with mutual threading. Just proximalto the tool 32, a transparent inspection tube 40 defines a throughborethat provides a continuation of the longitudinal channel across a gap 42in the base member 22. As seen in FIG. 2, the inspection device 36includes a pair of vertically-oriented fingers 43 that extend into thegap 42 and flank the inspection tube 40. The fingers 43 contain sensors,such as light detectors, or cameras, etc., for inspecting and/orregistering the FUs that travel through or pause in the inspection tube40.

In one very simple and useful mode of operation, the inspection device36 comprises an LED transmitter and receiver combination in the fingers43. When an FU traverses the inspection tube 40, the LED light beam isinterrupted, which is sensed by the receiver. This signals to the systemthat an FU has passed. If during one harvesting step no FU is sensed,the system processor records the absence of an FU in that particularreceptacle of the cartridge, and the receptacle, for example, may thenbe skipped in a subsequent implant sequence using that cartridge.

Another exemplary means of inspecting FUs is an imaging system thatacquires an image of any one follicular unit and utilizes imageprocessing to assess, for example, the type, size of the FU and/ornumber of follicles therewithin, as well as to count them. Various waysto inspect and classify FUs are disclosed in two PCT applicationsdirected to systems and methods for classifying and counting FUs,PCT/US07/76726 and PCT/US07/76728, both filed on Aug. 24, 2007. Theseapplications are expressly incorporated herein by reference. As will beexplained below, in yet another aspect of the present invention, thestorage device or cartridge of the present invention could be used inconjunction with the systems described in these two PCT applications toprovide information about the type of hair follicle unit located inselected receptacles in the cartridge 30. Various means of classifyingcould be used depending on the biological unit. For example, hair couldbe classified based on whether it is a multiple or single hair unit,while for other biological units the scheme could be their size, shape,chemistry, etc.

In one preferred embodiment, the system of the present inventionincludes a processor for receiving signals from the inspection device 36and the mechanism for transferring a biological unit into a knowncartridge receptacle. The processor classifies the biological unit andrecords the classification for later recollection and selectiveretrieval from the corresponding cartridge receptacle. For instance, theinspection device 36 may include an image acquisition device, and theprocessor is an image processor configured for processing an imageobtained by the image acquisition device. As described in PCT/US07/76726and PCT/US07/76728, the image processor may be configured for countingand/or classifying the FU, including for example, calculating a contourof the segmented image of the FU, calculating an outline profile of thesegmented image which disregards concavities in the calculated contourof the segmented image of the FU, determining the number of defects inthe outline profile, and finally classifying the FU at least partiallybased on the number of determined defects. Alternatively, the imageprocessor may be configured for recording or registering the FU.

Of course, various image acquisition devices could be used, representedby the inspection device 36, such as those described in PCT/US07/76726and PCT/US07/76728. For example, the image acquisition device may be oneor more cameras, such as any commercially available cameras. Or, theimage acquisition device could be a video recording device (such as acamcorder). While it is preferred that the image acquisition device be adigital device, it is not necessary. It could be, for example, an analogTV camera that acquires an initial image which is then digitized into adigital image. The image processor may comprise any device programmedand configured to perform the method of registering, counting, and/orclassifying a biological unit (e.g., an FU). One non-limiting example ofa suitable image processor is any type of personal computer (“PC”).Alternatively, the image processor may comprise an Application SpecificIntegrated Circuit (ASIC) or Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). Theimage processor may be programmed with software configured to performthe methods of the present invention.

To obtain better images of the follicular units to allow for inspection,assessment and registering of the FUs, the present invention alsoprovides components for tracking or monitoring the position of the FU asit “shuttles” or transfers from the body surface and/or harvesting toolinto, for example, a storage cartridge, such as through the exemplaryshuttle subsystem 20. Alternatively, FUs may be imaged and inspected asthey pass through the inspection device prior to their implantationwithout any use of a storage cartridge. In such applications, theinspected biological units, such as FUs, may be classified and thenimmediately implanted into a desired location based on the results ofthe inspection and/or classification. Various embodiments, includingthose with or without the use of a storage cartridge may be employedusing similar techniques, as described below. In general, an inspectiondevice assesses each FU (or a sampling of FUs) as it moves through theshuttle subsystem 20. In this respect, a mechanism is used to transferthe FUs (or more generally biological units) past the inspection deviceand, for example, into one of the plurality of cartridge receptacles inthose embodiments where the cartridge is used. It should be understoodthat the mechanism for transferring the FUs may be the open channel witha pressure differential, as described above, or another such mover likea conveyor, pick and place, or similar expedient.

By anticipating/calculating the position of the FU as it moves throughthe subsystem, or by stopping the FU's motion in the field of view ofthe camera, a strobe light may be fired at a point and time where acamera can obtain a clear image. Generally, an imaging device (e.g.camera) may make an image of an FU as it travels to or from thecartridge. In order to do it, a tracking system located adjacent thechannel through the shuttle subsystem 20 upstream of an imaging pointmay be used to detect the FU's presence in the shuttling system andmeasure its velocity. The tracking system in conjunction with aprocessor/controller may use the velocity information to strobe a lampat the instant the FU is within the field of view of the imaging device.The strobe may freeze the motion of the FU for observation andinspection. Alternatively, the FU can stop its motion in the field ofview of the camera and have its image recorded. For instance, FIG. 5schematically shows components for tracking/registering the movement ofa biological unit such as an FU in the systems of the present invention.For reference purposes, these components may be incorporated into thesubsystem 20, and therefore like elements will be given like numbers.Indeed, FIGS. 6A and 6B are side elevational and sectional view througha modified cartridge shuttle subsystem 20′ with the addition of FUtracking components. This technique for monitoring, registering,inspection, and assessment of an FU of interest may also be useful in ahandheld device for harvesting FUs, and illustration in the automatedsubsystem 20′ should not be considered limiting.

In exemplary FIG. 5, an FU is shown traveling at a velocity v throughthe lumen of a harvesting tool 32 that projects distally from the distalend of the base member 22. As described above, the lumen of the tool 32leads into a longitudinal channel extending through the base member 22and past an imaging point 44 aligned with an inspection device 36. Theinspection device 36 in the illustrated example includes a camera C, astrobe S, and a beam splitter BS. The strobe S is shown aligned with thecamera axis, although it may also be misaligned. Prior to reaching theimaging point 44, the FU passes between a first or upstream checkpointcomprising a first light source L₁ and a first light detector D₁, and asecond or downstream checkpoint including a second light source L₂ and asecond light detector D₂. The first and second checkpoints registerpassage of the FU when it breaks the continuity of light transmissionbetween the respective source and detector. A processor/controllerreceives inputs from these sensors and sends outputs to each of thevarious instruments, and includes a memory.

The processor/controller may be adapted to receive signals from theinspection device, and performing one or more of the additionaloperations, including but not limited to registering passage of thebiological unit through the inspection device and into one of theplurality of cartridge receptacles in those embodiments including thecartridge, counting biological units, and classifying biological units.Further, the processor/controller may record the results of one or moreof the operations of registering, counting and classifying for laterrecollection and selective retrieval from the corresponding cartridgereceptacle.

Although systems and methods of the present invention are consideredparticularly useful for effectively managing/processing a plurality ofbiological units in sequence, such as by classifying and/or storing themin select receptacles in a cartridge, various concepts described hereinare also applicable for more manual one-by-one biological unitmanagement. For instance, an inspection device may be coupled to amanual or partially automated hand-held biological unit removal tool forreal-time assessment of each biological unit. For example, such afollicular unit removal tool may incorporate an inspection device thatdisplays to the user the type of FU (e.g., F1, F2, etc.). The user canthen easily determine the subsequent action, such as by implanting theFU in the appropriate location, or expelling the FU into a containerholding those types of follicular units. In addition, such a tool andinspection device could be coupled to the processor/controller whichkeeps track of the number of different types of FUs that have beenremoved. In other words, although the various systems described hereinare extremely useful for automated or robotic biological or follicularunit removal/management/implantation, they are also useful and desirablein conjunction with hand-held or other manual non-robotic tools.

With reference again to FIG. 5, the distance between the firstcheckpoint and the second checkpoint is indicated as l₁, while thedistance between the second checkpoint and the imaging point 44 isindicated as l₂. The time Δt₁ that the FU takes to travel betweencheckpoints is recorded, and the velocity v of the FU can be calculatedusing the formula:

v=l ₁ /Δt ₁

Subsequently, the time Δt₂ that the FU takes to travel between thesecond checkpoint and the imaging point 44 can be calculated using theformula:

Δt ₂ =l ₂ /v

The controller then triggers the strobe S at a time Δt₂ after the FUpasses the second or downstream checkpoint, and instructs the camera Cto take a picture of the imaging point 44. With proper response times,the FU will be centered at the imaging point 44, or at least within thecamera's field of vision 44′, at the time the strobe S fires and thecamera C takes a picture. This system thus ensures that a clear image ofeach FU can be obtained. Information from the images of the FUs can thenbe used for multiple purposes, including without limitation: registeringpassage of each FU through the shuttle system, counting the number ofFUs, including those sent to the cartridge, classifying and sorting FUs,such as based on its size, character, the number of hairs therein (e.g.,“F1” for a single hair follicular unit, “F2” for a two hair follicularunit, and so on), or keeping track and recording information on the typeof an FU contained in each receptacle of the cartridge. Because of therelatively constant suction and therefore velocity v of the FUs passingthrough the system, the time deltas between the checkpoints and theimaging point 44 also remain fairly constant, which further ensuressuccess of the image collection by eliminating transients. Moreover, anoperator may sample the images and adjust the timing slightly if the FUsare not precisely centered at the imaging point 44.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a modified shuttle subsystem 20′ with theaddition of FU tracking components. As provided in the originalembodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the subsystem 20′ comprises a block-likebase member 22 having a distal end 24 and a proximal end 26. Alongitudinal direction extends from the distal end 24 to the proximalend 26, while the transverse direction extends perpendicular thereto ina horizontal plane. A transverse channel in the base member 22 receivesa rectilinear cartridge 30 that slides either manually or automatically,for example, under the control of a robotic manipulator (not shown). Anexemplary removal/harvesting tool 32 extends distally from the distalend 24 of the base member 22.

FIG. 6B shows the subsystem 20′ in horizontal cross-section, and as inFIG. 4 shows a gap 42 in the base member 22 within which is positionedthe inspection device 36. It should be noted that the inspection device36 schematically represents the assembly of the camera C, a strobe S,and a beam splitter BS as described above with respect to FIG. 5. Thebase member 22 also receives first and second checkpoints 45 a, 45 bwithin corresponding spaces 46. As described above, the checkpoints 45a, 45 b each desirably include a light source and light detectorpositioned to sense longitudinal passage of a FU through the subsystem20′. As in the schematic of FIG. 5, the upstream and downstreamcheckpoints 45 a, 45 b are spaced apart a distance l₁, while thedownstream checkpoint 45 b is spaced from the imaging point 44 adistance l₂.

The cartridge 30 includes a plurality of receptacles for receiving FUs.As each FU is inspected and identified by the device 36, the controllercan manipulate the cartridge 32 to place particular FUs withinparticular receptacles, or simply catalog the contents of thereceptacles of the cartridge. For example, all of the F1 FUs may beplaced in one select group of receptacles, while the F2 and larger FUswill be placed in the rest of the receptacles.

Still with reference to FIG. 4, the longitudinal channel through themiddle of the base member 22 continues across the transverse channel 28(as seen in FIG. 2) through one of a number of receptacles formed in thecartridge 30. A tubular sleeve 47 defines a throughbore that forms adistal section of the longitudinal channel. The tubular sleeve 47 fitswithin a bore formed in the base member 22 and is secured therein with acover 48 that is bolted to the base member. The obturator 34 is shownclosely fit within the throughbore of the tubular sleeve 47. A pluralityof O-rings or seals 49 shown in FIG. 4 prevent fluid leakage from thevarious sections of the channel and the exterior.

The base member 22 defines a plurality of transverse fluid ports thatintersect the longitudinal channel. Specifically, a pair of proximalports 50 a, 50 b extend from opposite sides of the base member 22 andconverge in the middle, registering with a pair of side ports 51 (seeFIG. 2) in the tubular sleeve 47. A pair of distal ports 52 a, 52 bextend from opposite sides of the base member 22 and converge in themiddle in fluid communication with a small section of the longitudinalchannel between the tool 32 and the inspection tube 40. The ports 50, 52receive connectors (not shown) of sources of fluid or vacuum. Therefore,as will be explained below in the description of use of the subsystem20, differential pressures may be created along the longitudinalchannel. Preferably, the fluid used to pressurize the subsystem 20 issaline, although air may also be used. For hair follicles, saline ispreferred to help maintain hydration of the FUs during the harvestingand/or implant procedure. However, any other preservation solutions areequally useful in the present invention. Use of a preservation solutionis advantageous as each receptacle desirably contains some of thepreservation solution after being filled with an FU. Moreover, to betterpreserve FUs, the preservation solution may be cooled or chilled asdesired.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a storage deviceor cartridge 30 is provided. Such cartridge preferably has a highdensity of holes or receptacles to store FUs (or other appropriatebiological objects) in small spaces. Moreover, such cartridge preferablypermits storage of FUs under a controlled environment, for example,keeping them sterile, or moist, or at a desired cool temperature. Theshape or configuration of the storage device or cartridge 30 may takemany forms, and neither the rectilinear or later-described cylindricalor disk-like shapes are necessary or limiting, and can vary according tothe intended application. The storage devices of the present inventionare advantageously configured to define a plurality of receptacles forreceiving the biological units. Such storage devices can be manipulatedto register each receptacle, for example, sequentially with harvestingand/or implanting tools. Preferably the storage devices are small enoughto be easily exchanged within the overall subsystem or system, andeasily sterilized if they are to be reused. Alternatively, the storagedevices may have certain features which prevent reuse, and thus they aredisposable.

FIGS. 7A-7E illustrate a number of views of one exemplary rectilinearcartridge 30 for use with the subsystem 20. FIG. 7A shows a distal face(or first face) 60 while FIG. 7B shows a proximal face (or second face)62. The faces 60, 62 are planar and rectilinear, and lie in parallel.Some non-limiting examples of the rectilinear cartridges are thoseshaped like squares or rectangles. A thickness dimension t shown in FIG.7B extends perpendicular to the faces 60, 62. A plurality of receptacles64 extend entirely through the cartridge 30 from the distal face 60 tothe proximal face 62. Each of the receptacles 64 defines a first opening66 at the distal/first face 60, and a pair of second openings 68 at theproximal/second face 62. The precise exemplary shape of the receptacles64 of this embodiment is seen in cross-section in FIGS. 7D and 7E, andmay be easily formed, for example, by drilling one large hole from thedistal face 60, and two smaller holes from the proximal face 62. Thecartridge 30 further defines a plurality of indexing notches 70 along anupper edge on the proximal side. The notches 70 can be used to displacethe cartridge 30, or as location indicators for each of the receptacles64. In addition to the receptacles 64, a central bore 72 having aconstant diameter extends between the faces 60, 62. As will be describedbelow, the bore 72 permits passage of the obturator 34 through thecartridge 30.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate two stages in a process for first harvestingand then implanting an FU. The FU is shown in FIG. 8 in proximity to thetool 32. In the exemplary embodiment, the tool 32 is designed forremoving the FU from a body surface, and may include a sharp distal tipor any other structure for grasping and removing the FU. Noticetransverse placement of the cartridge 30 so that a first or any otherdesired receptacle 64 on one end registers with the longitudinalchannel. This places the receptacle 64 in fluid communication with thelongitudinal channel, and with the ports 50, 52. The operator or anautomated system manipulates the shuttle subsystem 20 so that the FUenters a lumen 74 of the tool 32. For example, the operator may causethe tool 32 to plunge into a body surface around the FU.

Once the FU is within the lumen 74, the tool 32 is retracted from thebody surface and a pressure differential applied through the lumen 74 tocause the FU to translate in a proximal direction toward the receptacle64. The pressure differential along the longitudinal channel iscontrolled by the relative pressures of fluid at the ports 50, 52. Asthe FU passes the inspection tube 40, the inspection device 36registers, counts, and/or classifies it. Desirably the FU continues at aconstant rate through the longitudinal channel into the receptacle 64.Alternatively, the FU may be caused to pause in or slow down through theinspection tube 40 so that the inspection device 36 obtains a sufficientimage for classification purposes.

In various embodiments, the FU monitoring components seen in FIGS. 5 and6A-6B (or other alternative components designed to achieve similarresult or function) may be used to monitor the position of the FUspassing through the longitudinal channel, and in particular when each FUpasses the inspection device 36 that includes an imaging device, such asa camera. An image of each FU may be analyzed in real-time to determine,for example, the character, count, size, and other characteristics ofthe FU, which is then further processed accordingly, such as by aligningthe cartridge 30 along the transverse channel 28 to position a selectedreceptacle to receive the FU.

The end of travel of the FU is at the proximal end of the firstreceptacle 64. By virtue of the pair of second openings 68 on theproximal end of the receptacle, fluid passes therethrough but the FUdoes not. The speed of the FU as it approaches the receptacles 64 may bereduced by providing parallel flow channels (not shown), or throughvarious structural means, some of which are described in reference toanother embodiment below.

At this stage, the FU has been stored in the receptacle 64. The systemor operator then indexes the cartridge 30 along the transverse channel28 to position one of the other receptacles into registration with thelongitudinal channel, and the process of harvesting an FU is repeated.When all or any of the desired receptacles 64 contain FUs, the cartridge30 may be removed until it is ready for use in implanting the FUs backinto a body surface of a recipient. Indeed, a plurality of cartridges 30may be filled before the implant procedure. Or, the FUs stored in eachcartridge may be immediately implanted without changing the cartridge.

It should be noted that the linear pattern of receptacles 64 in thecartridge 30 is exemplary only, and any number of receptacle patternsmay be utilized. Of course, if the receptacles 64 are not alignedlinearly then the cartridge will have to be displaced in at least twodirections to register each receptacle with the longitudinal channelthrough the subsystem 20. Also, a close-packed matrix that does notconsist of regularly spaced perpendicular rows may be used.

In a first step in the implant procedure, a cartridge 30 that hasreceptacles filled with FUs is positioned within the base member 22 andone of the receptacles 64 registers with the longitudinal channel.Shuttling of the hair follicles from the cartridge to the implant toolcould be accomplished using various approaches. In some embodiments, apressure differential in the distal direction may urge the FU out ofthat receptacle and into either the inspection tube 40 or implant tool32. For example, the vacuum tube 136 described above that creates apressure differential urging the FU in the proximal direction can alsobe used to reverse the pressure differential to proper the FU distally.The reader will understand that the implant tool 32 may be the same asthe harvesting tool previously used, but is typically configureddifferently, thus requiring a change out.

In other embodiments, the FU may be pushed from the cartridge into theimplant tool using, for example, a mechanical device such as obturator,as shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 illustrates the cartridge 30 having beentransversely displaced to register the bore 72 with the longitudinalchannel. At this stage, the operator or system causes the distal end ofthe implanting tool 32 to enter the body surface of the recipient. Toaccomplish this, the distal end of the implanting tool 32 may besharpened, or the tool may be introduced into a previously formedpuncture or incision. The operator or system then translates theobturator 34 entirely through the longitudinal channel, thus pushing theFU out of the tool 32. In other alternative embodiments, a combinationof mechanical pushing and pressure differential could be used to expelFU from the cartridge.

FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary roboticbiological unit harvesting and implant system 100 according to anotheraspect of the present invention. The system 100 includes a robotic arm102 having a head assembly 104 mounted for rotation on a down tube 106of the robotic arm. Various arrows are shown to illustrate the movementcapabilities of the system 100. Furthermore, as will be seen below,motors and other such movement devices incorporated in the head assembly104 enable fine movements of an operating tip 108 in multipledirections.

The operating tip 108 is shown positioned over a body surface 110, inthis case a strip of tissue having hair follicles thereon. A personalcomputer 112 acting, for example, through a robotic control 114 controlsthe various movement devices of the robotic arm 102 and head assembly104. The control system or mechanism 114 may be operatively coupled tothe robotic arm and configured to control the motion of the robotic arm,including the motion based on the images or data acquired by any imageacquisition device that could be used with the system. Alternatively,all processing and controls of all movements of all the tools, includingharvesting and implanting tools, the robotic arm and any other moveableparts of the assembly, and those based on the images or data acquired bythe image acquisition device, may be incorporated in one processing andcontrol system, such as 114. An operator monitors conditions andprovides instructions through a monitor 115, keyboard 116, and mouse118. A magnified image of the body surface 110 can be seen on themonitor 115.

FIGS. 11-13 are perspective and elevational views of the head assembly104 of the system 100. The side view of FIG. 12 shows the body surface110 in proximity to the operating tip 108. A bank of LEDs 120illuminates the body surface 110 so that an imaging device, which is apair of cameras 122 in the illustrated embodiment, obtains a clearpicture for transmission back to the monitor 115. A plurality of circuitboards 124 mounted on the left side of the head assembly, as lookingfrom the operating tip 108, provides real-time control of the varioussubsystems thereon. Various components are mounted for rotation orlinear translation relative to the down tube 106 of the robotic arm 102.Stepper motors, hydraulic cylinders, and the like may be used, and willnot be described in great detail herein.

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate a cylindrical cartridge 130 mounted in the headassembly 104 of the illustrated embodiment for indexed rotation on anaxis that is parallel to the axis of a shaft 132 leading to theoperating tip 108. The shaft 132 mounts on the head assembly in a mannerthat permits linear translation along its axis. A proximal end 134 ofthe shaft 132 projects toward a distal side of the cartridge 130. Asthis particular illustrated embodiment uses a vacuum subsystem, it isshown on the proximal side of the cartridge that a vacuum tube 136mounts to the head assembly 104 in a manner that permits lineartranslation of a distal tip thereof.

FIGS. 14A-14D are various views of an exemplary disk-shaped cartridge130 according to another aspect of the present invention. The cartridge130 comprises a body 140 defining a plurality of receptacles 142therein. The body 140 defines an outer cylindrical surface 144, a flatcircular distal face (or first face) 146, and a flat circular proximalface (or second face) 148. The axial distance between the faces 146, 148defines a thickness t dimension, as seen in FIG. 14D. The receptacles140 extend axially through the body 140 from a first opening 150 at thedistal face 146 to a second opening 152 at the proximal face 148. Eachof the receptacles 142 is analogous to the receptacles 64 for thepreviously described cartridge shuttle subsystem 20 of FIGS. 1-9.

FIG. 14A shows the distal side of the cartridge 130 illustrating thedistal/first face 146 and the plurality of first openings 150 for thecorresponding receptacles 142. The receptacles 142 are arrayed in acircular pattern about the axis of the cartridge 130. In the illustratedembodiment, the circular pattern of receptacles 142 is located close tothe periphery of the cartridge (along the circumference), whichmaximizes the number of receptacles because of a minimum requiredspacing therebetween. It should be understood that multiple circular ornon-circular patterns of receptacles may be provided through thecartridge. As will be described below, the circular pattern ofreceptacles 142 aligns with the axis of the shaft 132 seen in FIG. 13.Indexing or rotating the cartridge 130, therefore, causes select ones ofthe receptacles 142 to register with the proximal end 134 of the shaft132. Of course, the receptacles 142 could be arranged in numerous wayswith a corresponding change in the required movement of the cartridge130 relative to the shaft 132 (or visa versa). For instance, thereceptacles 142 could be arranged in a pattern of at least one circulararray of receptacles along a circumference of the storage device asshown, or the pattern may include a second (or third, etc.) circulararray of receptacles concentrically arranged at a smaller radius thanthe first one. For that matter, the pattern could be random, or incertain order, have aligned rows or circles, or other arrangements. Thepattern is limited only by the potential movement of the cartridge 130relative to the shaft 132 (or visa versa).

The cartridge 130 further includes a cover 160 on its proximal/secondside that extends over the second openings 152 of the receptacles 142.The cover 160 is made of a permissive medium as described below topermit access via a number of means into the receptacle.

The term “permissive medium” refers to any number of materials thatcould be used with a storage cartridge according to one aspect of thepresent invention to facilitate movement of a biological unit to or fromthe cartridge receptacles. Examples of such mediums include meshes,screens, paper, elastomeric materials such as silicone, variouscontiguous polymers, various resealable materials that allow creation ofa slit or puncture that closes or reseals on its own, etc. Any of theabove-listed exemplary materials may cover the back (or proximal) sideof the cartridge to prevent FUs from passing through and exiting thecartridge, while at the same time allowing air and/or liquids to passthrough. The permissive mediums useful in the present invention are usedto cover an opening of a receptacle of a cartridge for storing, forexample, follicular units (FUs), and must possess sufficient structuralintegrity to block passage of an FU that is propelled into thereceptacle with some velocity. On the other hand, the permissive mediumis preferably either porous to permit air or fluid to pass freelytherethrough (air/fluid permeable), or is susceptible to puncture with atool.

One subset of permissive medium is an air and/or fluid permeable medium.If the cover 160 is permeable by air or fluids then a pressuredifferential through the receptacles can be established across the covermaterial. For instance, a mesh that permits passage of saline is apermeable medium, and therefore a permissive medium. However, anothersubset of permissive medium, a “puncturable medium,” refers to anynumber of materials that can relatively easily be punctured or piercedto create an opening, at least temporarily. Note that a “puncturablemedium” may be air and/or fluid permeable, as in a mesh, or not. If thecover 160 is fluid impermeable yet puncturable, then for example apressure differential through the receptacles can be established using aprobe that extends into the receptacle through the cover. Even metal maybe a puncturable medium if it is very thin, as in a foil, or arranged ina fine mesh or screen. The puncture is accomplished using an obturator(or rod, or needle, typically metallic) so that an opening can be formedto allow for air/fluid passage. The opening may be either permanentlyformed or temporarily formed in case of resealable medium. Creation ofan opening, as mentioned enables introduction of a suction probe forthose embodiments and/or steps of the procedure that use pressuredifferential or vacuum to pull FUs into receptacles of the cartridge.Alternatively, openings may be formed to permit introduction of salineor other known preserving solution to the receptacles.

Examples of puncturable mediums include meshes/screens (e.g., ofpolymer), medical filter materials that are air-permeable but not fluidpermeable, and silicone rubbers. Desirably, the puncturable medium isnon-fraying, meaning that the puncture does not result in particlesbeing shed or severed therefrom. Such particles could degrade orcontaminate the biological unit in the receptacle.

An exemplary permissive medium may be medical grade silicone rubberpoly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) which can be punctured by an obturatorsized to fit through the receptacles 142. As seen in FIG. 14D, the cover160 may be attached to the body 140 of the cartridge 130 by virtue of aretaining ring 162. Although not shown, the retaining ring 162 may befastened to the body 140 with screws or bolts, or glue may be used for amore permanent attachment. Alternatively, the use of the retaining ringis not necessary, and cover 160 could be directly attached (eitherpermanently or removably) to the body of the cartridge, for example bygluing, fusing, clipping, etc. Two different ways for clamping the cover160 to the body 140 are shown below with respect to FIGS. 17 and 19.

Desirably, an amount of saline or other known preserving solution isplaced in each receptacle 142 of the cartridge 130 so that hairfollicles or other biological objects remain hydrated or maintain a cooltemperature during the storage. One way to accomplish this is to utilizea permissive medium for the cover 160 that wicks the preservative fluidagainst the second openings 152 and therefore transfers it to eachreceptacle due to surface tension effects (i.e., capillary action).Another way is to directly insert a drop of fluid into each receptacle142.

The cartridge 130 (or 30 in the earlier embodiment) is not limited touse with the robotic system of FIG. 10, but also has utility in otherprocedures. As mentioned, various kinds of biological units may bemanaged using the cartridge of the present invention. One example is aprocess where a plurality of biopsy samples are taken and stored forlater analysis. The system desirably matches the donor location with thereceptacles, and then can deliver any one biopsy sample as needed withknowledge of the area of the body from which it came. Additionally, asmentioned previously, the cartridge may be utilized in a primarilymanual system, without the aid of the robotic system described herein.To clarify, the cartridge of the present invention may be utilized in amanual or primarily manual system where harvesting and/or implanting isaccomplished by a person (such as, physician or trained technician)using, for example, a hand-held device, even though such device or aprocedure may be automated to various degrees.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the disk-shaped cartridge 130 prior toloading into a harvesting/implanting system 100. The proximal side ofthe cartridge is illustrated and it should be noted that the cover 160is not shown so as to expose the receptacles 142.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a cartridge 130 mounted in proximity tocertain of the harvesting/implanting system 100 components with which itdirectly interacts. The cartridge 130 is oriented the same way as inFIG. 15, with the proximal side to the left, though in this operationalview the permissive medium cover 160 occludes the receptacles 142. FIG.16 also illustrates an alternative configuration for mounting the cover160. With reference also to FIG. 17, inner and outer mounting rings 164a, 164 b bolt to the body of the cartridge 130 and hold the retainingrings 166 a, 166 b within grooves (not numbered) in the proximal face ofthe cartridge 130. The retaining rings 166 a, 166 b in turn capture andfrictionally hold inner and outer circular edges of the cover 160, whichis made of the material that flexes or can be pressed into the grooves.For instance, the cover 160 may be made of a silicone (PDMS) elastomerin the shape of the annulus with the inner and outer edges thereofretained in the grooves by the rings 164, 166.

FIG. 16 shows the vacuum tube 136 passing through a frame member 168mounted on the head assembly 104 (FIG. 13). A spring member 170 is seenat the terminal end of the vacuum tube 136, which helps ensure goodsuction contact between the tube and the proximal face of the cartridge130 and reduces the need for precise relative positioning tolerances.Again, the head assembly 104 includes a movement mechanism (not shown)for translating the vacuum tube 136 toward and away from the cartridge130, as indicated by the double-headed arrow.

The frame member 168 may also provide a platform for mounting a piercingdevice 172 adjacent the terminal end of the vacuum tube 136. Thepiercing device 172 comprises a thin rod, desirably pointed orsharpened, which lies at the same radial distance from the rotationalaxis of the cartridge 130 as the vacuum tube 136. In other words, thepiercing device 172 aligns with the circular pattern of receptacles 142.The piercing device 172 may be utilized to pre-puncture holes or slitsthrough the cover 160 for each of the receptacles. The piercing device172 may be utilized if the terminal end of the vacuum tube 136 comprisesa thin probe for entering the receptacles, and the probe isinsufficiently sharp to cleanly form its own hole. Such an embodimentwill be described below in reference to FIG. 19. In an alternativeconfiguration, the terminal end of the vacuum tube 136 may be pointed toperform the puncture rather than using a separate piercing instrument.

FIG. 16 also illustrates a housing 174 within which may be located arotational prime mover, such as a stepper motor, for rotating orindexing the cartridge 130. Precise rotational movement of the cartridge130 registers each of the receptacles 142 in turn relative to the vacuumtube 136. Software controlling the movement mechanism enables any one ofthe receptacles 142 to be registered as desired. For example, asmentioned above an inspection system for assessing the characteristic ofeach FU may be incorporated into the harvesting procedure, and anunderstanding of what type of FU is in each receptacle 142 enables thesystem to implant smaller FUs in one location, while larger FUs areimplanted in another location. Numerous such implant schemes are knownin the art and will not be described further herein. The reader willalso note that relative radial translation of the vacuum tube 136 andcartridge 130 may be incorporated into the system to facilitateregistration of the vacuum tube 136 with a second circular array ofreceptacles 142 (not shown) concentrically arranged with respect to theillustrated array.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged sectional view of the distal components of FIG.16, and illustrates exemplary pressure differential reduction structuredesirably provided to slow down the velocity of a biological unittraveling toward the cartridge 130. In one method of use of the system,a source of suction is applied to a proximal side of a selectedreceptacle 142 during the harvesting process, which creates a pressuredifferential in the proximal direction thus urging an FU into thereceptacle. The magnitude of the pressure differential typically remainsconstant during travel of the FU along the path from the harvesting toolto the receptacle 142, because the suction required to pull the FU fromthe body surface is relatively high, which results in the FU moving ahigh rate of speed toward the receptacle. This high velocity movementpotentially may cause damage to the FU when it halts at the proximal endof the cartridge receptacle, such as when it impacts the cover 160.Because of the short travel duration, however, it would be difficultthough not impossible to provide a system which steps down the magnitudeof the suction halfway between the harvesting tool and the receptacle.

Rather than incorporating a sophisticated (i.e., expensive) dual-stagepressure step-down system, structure may be provided along a path inwhich the biological unit travels from the removal tool to the storagedevice receptacle to reduce the pressure differential along a portionthereof and thereby reduce the speed of the FU along the path. Forinstance, the structure may comprise a parallel flow path outside of themain path which terminates just before the path reaches the cartridge.In FIG. 17, the FU travel path from the operating tip 108 through thedistal shaft 132 passes along a main tube 173 surrounded by an outertube 175. An annular space is created between the tubes 173, 175. Twosets of bypass holes 177 spaced apart substantially the length of theshaft 132 enable flow to enter the annular space. This reduces thepressure within the main tube 173 and therefore slows down travel of theFU in that area.

Now with reference to FIG. 18, an exemplary pressure relief structurefor the cartridge receptacles 142 is shown. When a source of suction isapplied to a proximal side of a selected receptacle 142 during theharvesting process, the pressure differential continues for short periodafter the FU reaches the receptacle. During that time, it is desirableto mitigate the dehydrating effects of the suction on the FU, forinstance if the FU completely includes the receptacle on its proximalside. In FIG. 18, one of the receptacles 142 shown is provided withpressure relief channels 174 to limit the maximum suction created withinthe receptacle to less than a magnitude of the source of suction. Statedanother way, the vacuum tube 136 comprises a source of suction which, ifsealed around the proximal end of the receptacle 142, would apply amagnitude of suction to the receptacle. Without the pressure reliefchannels 174, the FU within the receptacle would be exposed to themaximum suction. By providing alternative paths for fluid or air intothe vacuum tube 136, the maximum suction to which the FU is exposed isless than the magnitude of the source of suction.

The pressure relief channels 174 are shown as small notches in a crosspattern at the second opening or proximal end of the receptacle 142. Ofcourse, other configurations can be used, including only one notch.Additionally, the pressure relief channels 174 are only shown in onereceptacle for example purposes, and desirably are provided for all thereceptacles.

FIG. 19 illustrates an alternative method for applying a source ofsuction (creating a pressure differential) to the receptacles 142.Namely, a suction probe 176 extends from the distal end of the vacuumtube 136. The suction probe 176 features a blunt, closed end 177 and atleast one side port 178 near the closed end. The outer diameter of thesuction probe 176 is sufficiently smaller than the inner diameter of thereceptacle 142 so as to provide a gap and permit air or fluid to flowaround the probe and into the side port 178.

The suction probe 176 extends through the permissive medium cover 160into the receptacle 142. In this embodiment, the cover 160 is optionallyretained against the proximal face of the cartridge 130 by a plate 179that is in turn secured by an outer ring 181. A circular array oftapered openings (not numbered) in the plate 179 register with each ofthe receptacles 142, which facilitates introduction of the probe 176 tothe receptacle. Suction probe 176 may be used with any of the permissivemediums, but is especially useful with a cover 160 that is relativelyimpermissible to fluids. Pulling suction directly through such amaterial would be impractical, and therefore the probe 176 must beinserted through the cover 160 into the receptacle. Desirably the cover160 is made of a material that self-seals after removal of the probe176; for example, silicone (PDMS) elastomer.

The probe 176 may be pushed directly through the cover 160, but givenits blunt shape pre-formed slits or holes are desirably provided. Forexample, the piercing tube 172 illustrated in FIG. 16 may be used toform such holes. A particularly useful piercing tube 172 is shaped inthe form of a Huber needle which is designed so as not to core a hole,but instead just form a slit which is self-sealing. Alternatively, theterminal end of the suction probe 176 may be more pointed, such as inthe shape of a Huber needle, so as to form the hole itself, butconsideration should be given to the effect on the FU when it contactsthe sharpened probe.

FIGS. 20 and 21 are perspective and side views isolating follicular unitshuttle components from the overall head assembly 104. These componentscan also be seen incorporated in head assembly 104 in FIGS. 11-13. Todescribe important operational interactions of the system, or relativemovement between the distal end of the system including operating tip108, the cartridge 130, and the proximal end of the system includingvacuum tube 136 will be described. FIGS. 22A-22D illustrate a sequencefor harvesting an FU, while FIGS. 23A-23B describe a sequence forimplanting an FU. It should be understood that these operations may becarried out sequentially by first filling the cartridge 130, and thenemptying it without detaching from the system. However, depending on thenumber of receptacles 142 in the cartridge 130, several cartridges maybe required and the harvesting operation is accomplished first beforethe implant procedure. For instance, a cartridge may hold 125-500 FUs,while a typical procedure requires up to 2000 FUs. The number ofreceptacles is of course variable and a single cartridge may hold allthat would be needed.

FIGS. 22A-22D are sectional views through the shuttle components takenalong line 22-22 of FIG. 20, showing a sequence of operation forharvesting or removing a follicular unit from a body surface 110 andshuttling it to the cartridge 130. In FIG. 22A, the shaft 132 is shownafter having been displaced to the left within a cylinder 180. Thisaction causes a harvesting/removal tool 182 to punch into the bodysurface 110 to a predetermined depth. The depth of penetration of thetool 182 is determined with knowledge of the distance between the tooland the body surface prior to displacement of the shaft 132.

In FIG. 22B, a follicular unit FU is shown positioned within a lumen ofthe removal tool 182. Also, the assembly of the shaft 132 and cylinder180 is shown translated to the right so that the proximal end 134contacts the cartridge 130. The throughbore of the shaft 132 registerswith one of the receptacles 142 in the cartridge 130.

FIG. 22C illustrates a step wherein the FU shuttles from the removaltool 182 through the shaft 132 and into the cartridge receptacle 142.This may be accomplished using a pressure differential created, forexample, by suction through the vacuum tube 136. This step of shuttlingthe FU in FIG. 22C desirably utilizes the velocity reducing bypassstructure described above with respect to FIG. 17, as well as thepressure reduction channels described with respect to FIG. 18.Alternatively, a mechanical shuttle may be utilized to transfer the FUinto the receptacle 142. For instance, a rod or obturator (not shown)may be provided that extends through the shaft 132 and pushes the FUuntil it deposits into the receptacle 142.

Finally, FIG. 22D shows the assembly including the shaft 132 moving awayfrom the cartridge 130 into distal direction, and the assembly includingthe vacuum tube 136 moving away from the cartridge 130. At this point,the cartridge 130 is free to rotate and index another receptacle intoregistration with the distal and proximal components of the shuttlesubsystem.

Now with reference to FIG. 23A, the shuttle subsystem components areshown essentially in the positions from FIG. 22D, although instead of aharvesting/removal tool, the distal end of the shaft 132 features animplant tool 184. A receptacle 142 having an FU registers with the lumenof the shaft 132. On the proximal side, the vacuum tube 136 has beenremoved and replaced with a solid rod-like obturator 186. The obturator186 translates linearly along its axis through the receptacle 142 andthrough the entire length of the shaft 132, and may be propelled in anumber of ways including by contact with a plurality of wheels 188.

FIG. 23B shows the three components brought together and the obturator186 passed though the receptacle 142 and entire shaft 132 until the FUreaches the implant tool 184. The implant tool 184 may be used todeposit the FU into a preformed incision or create a new incision in abody surface.

The reader should understand that shuttling of the hair follicles fromthe cartridge to the implant tool could be accomplished using severalalternative approaches. One example is to push the FUs from thecartridge all the way through the distal end of the implant tool usingthe obturator as described. Another option is to use a pressuredifferential to urge the FU out of each receptacle and into the implanttool. For example, the vacuum tube 136 described above that creates apressure differential urging the FU in the proximal direction can alsobe used to reverse the pressure differential to propel the FU distally.Or, a combination of physical pushing and pressure could be used.

The foregoing illustrated and described embodiments of the invention aresusceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, and itshould be understood that the invention generally, as well as thespecific embodiments described herein, are not limited to the particularforms or methods disclosed, and that many other embodiments are possiblewithin the spirit and the scope of the present invention. Moreover,although individual features of one embodiment of the invention may bediscussed herein or shown in the drawings of the one embodiment and notin other embodiments, it should be apparent that individual features ofone embodiment may be combined with one or more features of anotherembodiment or features from a plurality of embodiments.

While the invention has been described in its preferred embodiments, itis to be understood that the words which have been used are words ofdescription and not of limitation. Therefore, changes may be made withinthe appended claims without departing from the true scope of theinvention.

1. A storage device for holding a plurality of biological units,comprising: a body having a first face and a second face and defining aplurality of receptacles therein for holding biological units, thereceptacles each passing through the body from the first face to thesecond face and including a first opening at the first face of the bodyand at least one second opening at the second face of the body; and apermissive medium covering the second openings of the plurality ofreceptacles.
 2. The storage device of claim 1, wherein the body issubstantially cylindrical or disk-shaped having a thickness dimensionalong the direction of the cylindrical axis, and the receptacles arearrayed in a pattern and through the thickness dimension of the body. 3.The storage device of claim 2, wherein the pattern comprises at leastone circular array of receptacles along a circumference of the storagedevice.
 4. The storage device of claim 1, wherein at least one of theplurality of receptacles comprises a pressure relief structure thatlimits the maximum suction created within the receptacle from a sourceof suction.
 5. The storage device of claim 1, wherein the body issubstantially rectilinear having a thickness dimension and thereceptacles are arrayed in a pattern through the thickness dimension ofthe body.
 6. The storage device of claim 5, wherein the receptacles arearrayed in a close-packed matrix.
 7. The storage device of claim 1,wherein the permissive medium comprises one or more of a mesh, an air orfluid permeable material, and puncturable material.
 8. The storagedevice of claim 1, wherein the permissive medium comprises aself-sealing elastomer.
 9. The storage device of claim 1, wherein thepermissive medium comprises a cover attached to the body that extends atleast partly over the second face and over the second openings.
 10. Thestorage device of claim 1, wherein each portion of the permissive mediumthat covers the second openings of the receptacles is rendered unusableonce punctured such that the storage device is a single-use device. 11.The storage device of claim 1, wherein the storage device is disposable.12. The storage device of claim 1, wherein each portion of thepermissive medium that covers the second openings of the receptacles isresealable once punctured such that the storage device may be reusedmore than once.
 13. The storage device of claim 1, wherein thebiological unit is a hair graft, and the receptacles are sized toclosely receive the hair graft.
 14. The storage device of claim 13,wherein the storage device is configured to be removably received in arobotic hair transplantation system.
 15. The storage device of claim 1,wherein the storage device is configured to be removably received in oneor more of a hand-held, partially automated, and fully automated deviceor system.
 16. The storage device of claim 1, wherein at least onereceptacle of the plurality of receptacles contains a biological unitpreservation solution.
 17. The storage device of claim 1, configured toallow for cooling of the biological unit once it is held in a receptacleof the plurality of receptacles.
 18. A device for transplantingfollicular units (FUs) into tissue, comprising; a robotic system havinga robotic arm and a control mechanism; an implanting tool having a lumentherethrough and being connected to and manipulated by the robotic arm;and a cartridge having a plurality of receptacles each adapted to retainan FU, wherein the control mechanism is adapted to automatically alignthe selected cartridge receptacle with the lumen of the implanting tooland urge the FU from the selected receptacle through the lumen of theimplanting tool into the tissue.
 19. The device of claim 18, furthercomprising an obturator positioned to pass through the selectedcartridge receptacle, and wherein the control mechanism directs passageof the obturator through the selected cartridge receptacle to urge theFU from the selected receptacle.
 20. The device of claim 18, furthercomprising a pressure differential through the selected cartridgereceptacle, and wherein the control mechanism initiates pressuredifferential through the selected cartridge receptacle to urge the FUfrom the selected receptacle.
 21. The device of claim 18, furthercomprising a follicular unit removal tool having a lumen therethrough,the removal tool is connected to and manipulated by the robotic arm toposition the removal tool over an FU located on a body surface; andwherein the control mechanism is adapted to align the lumen of theremoval tool with a selected cartridge receptacle and urge the FUthrough the removal tool into the selected cartridge receptacle.
 22. Anautomated process for shuttling a biological unit into and from astorage device having a plurality of receptacles, comprising: acquiringa biological unit into a first tool using a substantially automatedprocess; urging the biological unit from the first tool into a selectedreceptacle of the storage device using a substantially automatedprocess; capturing the biological unit in the selected receptacle; anddisplacing the biological unit from the selected storage devicereceptacle into the said first tool or a different tool using asubstantially automated process.
 23. The process of claim 22, whereinthe first tool defines a lumen therethrough and the step of urging thebiological unit through the first tool comprises applying a pressuredifferential to the first tool lumen.
 24. The process of claim 23,further comprising providing structure along a path in which thebiological unit travels from the first tool to the storage devicereceptacle to reduce the pressure differential along a portion thereofand thereby reduce the speed of the biological unit along the path. 25.The process of claim 24, wherein the structure comprises a parallel flowpath outside of the path which terminates just before the path reachesthe storage device.
 26. The process of claim 22, wherein the processincludes applying a source of suction to a proximal side of the selectedreceptacle, and providing a pressure relief channel on the proximal sideof each receptacle for limiting the maximum suction created within thereceptacle to less than a suction magnitude of the source of suction.27. The process of claim 22, wherein the first tool defines a lumentherethrough and the step of urging the biological unit through thefirst tool comprises pushing the biological unit through the lumen ofthe first tool using mechanical means.
 28. The process of claim 22,further comprising cooling the biological unit while it is stored in thereceptacle of the storage device.
 29. The process of claim 22, furthercomprising preserving the biological unit while it is stored in thereceptacle of the storage device with a preservation solution.
 30. Theprocess of claim 22, wherein at least some steps of the method arecomputer-controlled.
 31. The process of claim 22, wherein at least somesteps of the method are performed by a robot.
 32. The process of claim22, wherein the storage device has a body with a thickness, thereceptacles passing through the body between a first opening and asecond opening on corresponding first and second ends of thereceptacles, the storage device comprising a permissive medium coveringthe second ends of the receptacles.
 33. The process of claim 33, whereindisplacing the biological unit from the storage device receptaclecomprises pushing the biological unit from the receptacle using anobturator that enters the receptacle through the permissive medium. 34.The process of claim 33, wherein the step of urging the biological unitthrough the removal tool comprises applying a pressure differential tothe removal tool lumen by reducing the pressure at the second end of thereceptacle relative to the first end by applying a low pressure sourceto the second end through the permissive medium.
 35. The process ofclaim 22, wherein the biological unit is a hair follicular unit.